Flagler lecture celebrates the Irish identity

Historic City News was informed that Flagler College history professors Wayne Riggs and Michael Butler will present a free lecture, “Irish Identity: From the Potato Famine to U2,” at 6:30 p.m. on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17th.

Riggs, who teaches a course on Irish history, will provide new perspectives on Ireland and the holiday that’s best known by Americans as a day to wear green. Butler will discuss Irish music and its impact on culture; he is currently teaching a “History of Rock” course that covers the popular band U2.

“It’s an exploration of history through the prism of rock’n’roll,” he said, adding that the unique class is the first of its kind at Flagler. The assignments often require students to examine complicated issues, Butler said – like whether music “influences change or reflects change.”

This event held in the Virginia Room of the Ringhaver Student Center, 50 Sevilla St., is open to the public. Seating is on a first-come, first served basis.